LIMP MODE = error lights

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Dave in Indy, Feb 18, 2025.

  1. Dave in Indy

    Dave in Indy Junior Member

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    My 2010 Prius with 185k miles is having an issue with shutting off and losing power while driving, this started happening about 6 months ago. I have installed a battery shut off so I can reset the codes when needed. The first time this happened the orange triangle came on with a check engine light, the hybrid system failure also popped up on the display, after a few hundred feet the rest of the warning lights went on and I lost any function of the vehicle, even gas motor. (limp mode engaged)I read on a forum the 60 amp Fuse was the issue, I pulled the fuse and waited for 30 minutes and reinstalled it, that cleared the codes for a bit, and. I continued to do that. (30 days) I eventually replaced the fuse. Made no difference. The codes continued to reappear. Then I read that if I pulled the negative battery cable and gave it 5 minutes it would clear the codes and clear the limp mode that does work sometime for 10 minutes sometimes for 3 hours. So I installed a battery disconnect switch at least I can now do that remotely. Complete Tune up completed….

    I REALLY NEED SOME ANSWERS AND HELP…..
     
  2. ChapmanF

    ChapmanF Senior Member

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    Get the trouble codes from the car and post them here. Stop trying to reset and ignore them.
     
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  3. MAX2

    MAX2 Active Member

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    Shaking the thermometer did not help any patient with a high temperature.
     
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  4. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    Assuming you don't want a dealer diagnosis (which is usually money well spent for most with little hybrid experience), I would get an obd2 bluetooth scanner or an Autel AP200 from Amazon.

    The bluetooth scanner and a couple of free phone apps like "Car Scanner" and "Dr Prius" and you will have some codes to share.

    The bluetooth option is not as comprehensive as more expensive options like an Autel 200 ($59) or the dealer's Techstream but it's way better than guessing.

    The common issues are things like your hybrid battery, the master cylinder, overheating engine (or battery) or a failing sensor. Some are expensive, some are not. Codes will often allow better diagnosis from afar and sometimes a solution.

    IMG_7533.jpeg

    or better


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